2012 small + tall “Joyful” Clos Pepe Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., $60. Clone 115. 100% de-stemmed, 4 to 6-day cold soak, native fermentation, aged 16 months in French oak barrels on the lees. · Moderate reddish purple hue in the glass. Aromas of cherry, strawberry and doughy oak are prominent initially, with the fruit becoming less expressive over time in the glass. Enviable entry and attack of strawberry, raspberry and cherry fruits accented with herbs and oak. The tannins are supported without being intrusive, and the dry finish continues the red berry and cherry theme. Satisfactory, even very good, but not special. Score: 89. Reviewed November 22, 2015

Winery: small + tall
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir